As teachers, we often strive to create unique and engaging lesson plans for our students that allow them to explore and understand the world around them. One topic that is often overlooked when it comes to teaching U.S. history is the natural resources of the Middle Colonies, which played a significant role in both the economic and industrial growth of the region.
One effective way to teach students about Middle Colonies’ natural resources is to start by providing background information about the colonies themselves. Discuss with students the geography, climate, and natural surroundings of the Middle Colonies, including present-day New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Be sure to highlight the natural resources that the colonies were rich in, such as fertile soil, timber, minerals, and waterways. Explain how these resources allowed the colonies to thrive and establish relationships with other regions.
Another approach to teaching Middle Colonies’ natural resources would be to focus on a specific resource and its importance to the region. For example, Pennsylvania’s abundance of coal was crucial to the growth of the iron and steel industries, which were essential to the Industrial Revolution. Teachers could also discuss the impact of the region’s fertile soil on agriculture and its influence on the development of large cities like Philadelphia and New York City.
Hands-on learning activities are always beneficial when it comes to engaging students in a topic, and this is no different when teaching Middle Colonies’ natural resources. A simple activity that can enhance student understanding of the topic is a class discussion where students can share what they know about natural resources. They can also bring in an item made from a natural resource from the Middle Colonies, such as a wooden spoon, basket, or some iron bars. Teachers can also create a virtual or in-class “scavenger hunt” where students search for items made from natural resources within their learning environment.
In conclusion, teaching students about Middle Colonies’ natural resources requires educators to be creative and diversify their teaching strategies. This subject matter is not frequently taught in schools but it can provide a rich and engaging learning experience. Providing background information, focusing on a particular resource, and hands-on activities are some ways that we can help students better understand the importance and impact of natural resources in the Middle Colonies.
